Fort Leonard Wood soldier charged with murder of Sergeant

Army prosecutors have advanced murder charges against a 21-year-old specialist in connection with the death of Army Sgt. Sarah Roque.

Officials at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, issued a brief statement today that Spc. Wooster Rancy is in custody awaiting a preliminary hearing on charges of murder and obstruction of justice, Articles 118 and 131b of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The statement did not specify the date of the hearing.

Roque did not show up for the morning formation on October 21st. On the same day, military police issued a missing person alert for the 23-year-old.

Investigators discovered Roque's body that night in a dumpster next to the base's housing.

“Sgt. Roque was a daughter, sister, friend and soldier who chose to serve our country courageously and honorably,” said Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, head of the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood. “Her death has left a huge void in our team, and while there are no words to ease the pain, we continue to provide care, resources and support to those affected during this difficult time.”

Officials announced Oct. 23 that they had arrested a suspect in connection with Roque's death.

The press release containing Rancy's information states that he is charged with “the murder of Sergeant Sarah Roque on October 20th,” suggesting that Roque died before the formation on October 21st.

The Army Criminal Investigation Division continues its investigation while the service's Office of Special Trial Counsel handles aspects of the military court charges.

Roque enlisted in the Army in Ligonier, Indiana, in 2020 and completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood. She served as a bridge crew member and mine dog handler with the K9 Detachment of the 5th Engineer Battalion.

Her awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Rancy joined the Army in 2022 and completed his undergraduate studies at Fort Leonard Wood. He had served as a combat engineer with the 509th Clearance Company, 5th Engineer Battalion.